After a series of strategic moves in free agency and the draft, the Rams are poised for a significant roster shakeup. But with new talent comes tough decisions, and not everyone can stay.
A New Era for the Rams
Following a youth overhaul in 2023, the Rams have managed to blend in fresh faces with experienced vets. The team has bolstered their offense and defense by welcoming back familiar faces like Darious Williams and signing former All-Pros such as Tre’Davious White. Moreover, their commitment to nurturing young talents is evident, with draft picks like Jared Verse touted as one of the top defensive players of the 2024 NFL draft.
However, these additions mean some players, even those who showed potential, might find themselves on the chopping block. The Rams’ focus on youth and potential means veterans and underperformers must prove their worth or risk being let go.
Rivers in a Crowded Backfield
Ronnie Rivers, a second-year pro from Fresno State, became a fan favorite due to his surprising rise in 2023. Despite having minimal playing time in his rookie year, Rivers outlasted draft picks like Darrell Henderson and Cam Akers, securing a backup role behind Kyren Williams.
Heading into 2024, Rivers faces stiffer competition. The Rams drafted Blake Corum out of Michigan in the third round. Additionally, 2023 sixth-round pick Zach Evans could emerge as a strong competitor. While Rivers has a slight edge due to his familiarity with the coaching staff, the influx of new talent puts his position at risk. If the Rams decide to cut down on running backs or if another promising player is available, Rivers might find himself on the outside looking in.
Larrell Murchison: From Promise to Uncertainty
When the Rams picked up Larrell Murchison via waivers in 2022, it was a low-risk move that showed immediate promise. His two-sack performance against the Denver Broncos on Christmas Day was a highlight. However, since then, Murchison hasn’t kept up the pace. Recording zero sacks and minimal stats in 2023, his production left much to be desired.
Adding to Murchison’s woes, the Rams bolstered their defensive line in the 2024 draft by selecting Braden Fiske in the second round. This fresh face brings new energy and potential to the lineup. Murchison’s future with the Rams appears bleak. Should any new player show promise during training camp or if another defensive lineman becomes available, Murchison might not make it to the 53-man roster.
Tyler Johnson: The Rollercoaster Ride
Tyler Johnson’s fall to the fifth round in the 2020 NFL draft was shocking, given his stellar college career. As a two-time All-Big Ten player, Johnson had an impressive resume from the University of Minnesota. However, concerns about his character and consistency pushed him lower in the draft.
Over his first four years, Johnson’s NFL journey has been rough. It started promising, playing with Tom Brady and making critical receptions in the Buccaneers’ 2020 Super Bowl run. But since then, it’s been underwhelming. With only 34 game appearances and two receptions since 2022, his time in the league has not matched his collegiate potential. He remains on the fringes despite joining the Rams, where he managed just two receptions for eight yards in 2023.
Johnson’s path to securing a spot is narrow. The Rams have already locked in several wide receivers, including Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp[2]. They also added rookie Jordan Whittington[1]. Johnson must outperform expectations significantly to avoid being cut.
Why These Cuts Matter
The potential release of Ronnie Rivers, Larrell Murchison, and Tyler Johnson underscores the Rams’ strategy to build a younger, more dynamic roster. This approach aligns with their recent shift towards developing new talents and letting go of players who haven’t met expectations or faced stiff competition from new acquisitions.
The Rams’ aggressive moves in free agency and the draft reflect a franchise willing to take risks to rejuvenate its lineup. This shift aims to ensure a competitive team for the coming seasons, manage salary caps effectively, and invest in players who promise growth and long-term success.
Los Angeles Rams Betting Odds
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, FanDuel Sportsbook has released several betting lines for the Los Angeles Rams:
Super Bowl and Season Wins
The Rams are currently listed at +3000 to win Super Bowl LIX, placing them in the middle of the pack among NFL teams. FanDuel Bookmaker has set the Rams’ over/under for regular season wins at 8.5. The over is priced at -110, while the under is at -110. The Rams won 10 games in 2023-24.
Week 1 Game Odds
For their season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 8, 2024, the Rams are 3.5-point underdogs. The moneyline for the Rams is set at +154, while the Lions are favored at -182. The over/under for total points is 48.5.
These odds reflect the uncertainty surrounding the Rams’ potential in 2024. While they made significant moves in the offseason and showed promise at the end of 2023, oddsmakers seem cautious about their chances for a deep playoff run. However, as we’ve seen in previous seasons, the Rams have a knack for exceeding expectations.
The Rams’ journey begins with their preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys on August 11th at 4:25 PM, giving fans and bettors alike their first glimpse of the 2024 squad.
